Victorian Liberals and Nationals pledge passenger rail return

By Jessica Dempster

The Victorian Liberals and Nationals have announced that, if elected, they will deliver passenger rail services to Mildura and Dimboola by mid-2029, under a $51.2 million plan.

The proposal includes three return services a week on each corridor, reconnecting communities across western and north-western Victoria to the passenger rail network.

The Mildura service would stop at six towns, including Red Cliffs and Ouyen, with passengers connecting to Melbourne-bound trains at Maryborough, while the Dimboola service would stop at Horsham, Murtoa and Stawell, with connections available at Ararat.

Opposition Leader Jess Wilson says the plan would give regional Victorians more affordable travel options and improve their access to opportunities across the state.

Shadow Public Transport Minister Matthew Guy says the proposal is a “sensible first step” that will get services back up and running, with the potential to expand them as demand increases.